I've never seen anything quite like this one. Mid-19th century German or Tyrolean Black Forest carved stag antler figural case with seated shepherd boy, dog, and woodland animals. It is not ivory, but is carved from a large antler, which interior can have a look of ivory but not the unique grain. Beautifully crafted, the rather large case has an inner compartment 3/8" in diameter and 2 3/4" length interior. Short for bodkins or net lacing needles, and makes me think it may be for matches, instead. A stunning item to bring out with after dinner cigar service, particularly in a Black Forest carving accented home, office, or hunting lodge - can you just see it! A match holder, perhaps, or a needle or bodkin case. Definitely a work of art! Full measurements noted on photos.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. In consideration of the artisan's work, the fragile nature of the work, it amazes me to point out just the tip of the boy's hunting dog's nose as the only chip. I think it could be smoothed and never even noticed. Might never get noticed anyway. I only saw it in my enlarged photos. The overall surface is forest-like texture and with application of a dark color the animals really stand out. Impossibly slender carved legs, antlers on the stag all remain perfect. The animals are all in active relation to one another. At bottom 2 hounds tussle with a wolf, each animal chasing or being chased. Forest life.
